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At least two people have died and eight others are in critical condition following a shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, according to officials.
The incident occurred Saturday afternoon inside the university’s engineering building while final exams were underway. Brown University Provost Frank Doyle confirmed that a gunman opened fire during the exam period.
Police said the suspect, described as a man wearing black clothing, fled the scene on foot and remains at large. Law enforcement conducted extensive searches across the Ivy League campus for several hours, checking buildings and nearby areas, including trash receptacles.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley announced a shelter-in-place order for the surrounding neighborhood, urging residents to remain indoors until authorities declare the area safe. He confirmed that all available local, state, and federal resources are being used to locate the suspect.
An individual initially detained in connection with the incident was later released after being cleared of any involvement. The eight injured victims are reported to be in critical but stable condition, though officials did not confirm whether they were students.
Mayor Smiley expressed condolences to the families affected, noting the tragedy comes just days before Christmas. He said the community now faces a difficult period of healing.
President Donald Trump stated he had been briefed on the situation, calling the shooting “terrible,” and asked the public to pray for the victims and those injured.
The shooting took place near the Barus & Holley building, a seven-story facility that houses the School of Engineering and the Physics Department. The building contains numerous laboratories, offices, and classrooms.
Brown University enrolls approximately 7,300 undergraduate students and more than 3,000 graduate students.
Providence City Council member John Goncalves, whose district includes the campus, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and urged residents to remain alert and follow safety guidance.
Students inside the building described moments of fear and uncertainty. One student said they hid under desks in a lab for nearly two hours after receiving emergency alerts. Another student reported hearing gunshots before fleeing to a nearby building, where she remained sheltered for several hours.
Authorities said the search for the suspect was complicated by large crowds in downtown Providence due to holiday shopping and events. Multiple law enforcement agencies continue to assist in the investigation.
Officials reiterated their call for prayers and support for the victims’ families during this tragic time.
